The Waikato DHB welcomes the decision for an inspection to be undertaken of its Mental Health and Addictions services by the Director of Mental Health, Dr John Crawshaw (see Minister of Health media release below).

The people of the Waikato deserve to have confidence in the quality and safety of the mental health services they receive.

Publicity about recent events may have undermined the confidence of some in the service and this confidence needs to be restored.

Waikato DHB had previously announced its own decision to undertake a comprehensive review of the Mental Health and Addictions service. This was paused to allow the completion of a Police investigation that is underway because of a criminal complaint made about the inpatient mental health services (Henry Rongomau Bennett Centre).

The Waikato DHB looks forward to the inspection being completed as soon as possible. Our many dedicated and professional staff are keen to continue providing quality care in a supportive environment.

Health Minister Jonathan Coleman says there will be an inspection of Waikato DHB’s mental health services.

“We want the public to have high confidence in the quality and safety of Waikato DHB’s mental health services,” says Dr Coleman.

“Following discussions with the Director General of Health, Chai Chuah, and the Director of Mental Health, Dr John Crawshaw, it has been agreed that a formal inspection of Waikato DHB’s mental health services will be carried out.

“This inspection will be undertaken by the Ministry of Health’s Director of Mental Health in accordance with his legislative powers under the Mental Health Act.”

Dr John Crawshaw will be assembling a small team who will support him in this inspection, with work commencing this week. The inspection and subsequent report back is expected to take up to eight weeks.

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Taumarunui was Waikato's first public meeting where around 100 people of the community gathered with some sharing their experiences, views and ideas to help guide the new direction of our mental health and addiction services. Find out more: ... Read moreSee less